Dates set for sixth annual John Calipari Basketball Fantasy Experience

The sixth annual John Calipari Basketball Fantasy Experience is set for Aug. 25-27, 2017, and is open for registration.

The John Calipari Basketball Fantasy Experience provides campers the opportunity to spend a weekend in the life of a Kentucky basketball player. Attendees have the option to play or coach and will receive expert instruction from Coach Cal, current UK Men’s basketball staff, former UK basketball greats and other celebrity guests.

The sixth annual John Calipari Basketball Fantasy Experience is set for Aug. 25-27, 2017, and is open for registration. (photo by Chris Reynolds)

“It’s really nice,” NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Cris Carter said at last summer’s event. “All different walks of life, different creeds, different parts of the country, but all of us have one common thing and that’s basketball, and we love basketball. That’s really, really refreshing to see older guys still enjoying to play, still competing, still trying to play the right way.”

The event includes a gear package for each participant, an all-access pass to UK training facilities and exclusive social events with Coach Cal. After taking a year off due to renovations, participants will once again play/coach and use the locker rooms inside historic Rupp Arena this year.

“This is kind of the heart and soul of college basketball,” Carter said. “It’s one of the five premier spots that they’ve ever played basketball at in the country. I think all that adds to the allure. And Coach Cal is so cool too. So down to earth. And the people he brings in, they know what they’re doing.”

The previous five John Calipari Basketball Fantasy Experiences have proven to be tremendously success, as UK Basketball Alumni and basketball enthusiasts have come to Lexington from across the United States. Combined with past UK alumni basketball and celebrity softball games, the event has generated more than $1.5 million for charity in each of the previous two years.

The John Calipari Basketball Fantasy Experience offers a chance to be a part of the inner workings of one of the premier programs in all of college basketball. Positions are limited and are secured on a first-come, first-served basis. The event sold out early in 2016, so participants are encouraged to register well in advance. For more information visit www.johncalipariexperience.com.